Graduating from the University of South Africa (UNISA) is a proud moment for many students.
This article explains the 2025 graduation dates, the steps to follow, and what to wear on the big day. All information comes from UNISA’s official sources.
When Are the 2025 UNISA Graduation Ceremonies?
UNISA’s Autumn graduations for 2025 will take place from 26 May to 30 June.
Ceremonies will be held in seven regions: Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, East London, Mbombela, Polokwane, and Bloemfontein.
This year, UNISA will award 48,799 qualifications during these ceremonies.
Who Gets Invited to a UNISA Graduation Ceremony?
Students who have completed a degree, three-year diploma, or postgraduate diploma will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony.
How Will I Know If I Am Graduating?
UNISA will send you an email and SMS once your qualification is complete.
You will also receive an Advance Statement of Results, which shows your final marks.
How Do I Access My Graduation Details?
To check your graduation information:
- Log in to myUnisa with your student number and password.
- Click on “myAdmin,” then “Student Admin,” and finally “Graduation information.”
- Review the details and submit the form if required
What Should I Wear to My Graduation?
Wearing the correct academic dress is mandatory. If you do not wear the proper attire, you will not be allowed into the graduation venue.
For Bachelor, Honours, and Master’s Degrees:
- Gown: Black, styled like a Master of Arts gown from Oxford or Cambridge.
- Cap: Black with a black tassel.
- Hood: Specific to your degree and college
For Diplomas:
- Gown: Black, same style as above.
- Neckband: Worn instead of a hood.
- Cap: Not worn for diplomas
Each college has specific colors and designs for hoods and neckbands.
For example, the College of Education uses green ribbons, while the College of Human Sciences uses golden brown.
Where Can I Get My Graduation Gown?
UNISA partners with House of Graduates for gown rentals and purchases. You can hire or buy your academic attire from them.
Prices vary depending on your qualification level.
For instance, hiring a bachelor’s set (gown, hood, and cap) costs R320, while purchasing it costs R2,050.
You can collect your attire at the graduation venue three hours before the ceremony starts.
If you hire the attire, you must return it immediately after the ceremony to avoid a late fee of R100 per day.
Can I Bring Guests to the Ceremony?
Yes, you can invite guests to your graduation ceremony. However, they must have tickets to enter the venue.
All guests should be seated 30 minutes before the ceremony begins.
Late arrivals or guests without tickets will not be allowed in.
What Should I Wear Under My Gown?
Graduation is a formal event. You should dress formally or in traditional attire. Avoid wearing jeans, t-shirts, or sports shoes.